GEOCACHINGWhat is geocaching?Think of geocaching as a worldwide treasure hunt using Global Positioning System (GPS) devices. The first clue is a set of GPS coordinates, corresponding to where someone has hidden a “treasure,” or geocache. Geocaches can come in all shapes and sizes and even be virtual.

Where does geocaching happen?Geocaching is a worldwide phenomenon, with geocaches placed in both the most common and uncommon of sites – from locations that aren’t visited often to busier, more heavily trafficked areas.

How does geocaching work?Begin by going to www.geocaching.com and registering for a free basic membership. Once registered, search for geocaches near you or at a different location by just entering a street address or zip code or by referencing the park locations below. Take the GPS coordinates listed on the geocache Web page and enter or download them into a GPS or Smartphone GPS app, which will then help navigate you toward the coordinates. The geocache will be located within a few feet of the coordinates, so look high and low! Once you find the geocache, always make sure to sign the logbook and return the geocache to its original location. Later you can log your find on www.geocaching.com and continue adding up your geocache finds.

What are the rules of geocaching?

• If you take something from the geocache, leave something of equal or greater value;• Put all geocaches back exactly how and where you found them; • No food, drugs, alcohol, or weapons can be placed in a geocache; • Leave only footprints. Don’t litter or destroy plant life; • When placing a cache, all park rules, local laws, and documented land management policies apply; • Permission must be obtained from landowners and/or land managers before any geocache is hidden, whether placed on private or public property; • Geocache placements should not damage, deface, or destroy public or private property; • Wildlife and the natural environment should not be harmed in the pursuit of geocaching. • Geocaches are not to be placed in restricted, prohibited, or otherwise inappropriate locations

Who can I contact if I have a question or concern about a geocache within Broward County?Geocaches will be regulated and enforced by Katherine Hendrickson, Park Naturalist I, through the Geocaching.com website. If you have any questions or concerns, please email her at Khendrickson@broward.org.

General Rules and Regulations for geocaching in Broward County Parks and Recreation facilities: